lUkhrul, Manipur | EKHON: Amid ongoing unrest in parts of Ukhrul district, the Working Committee of the Tangkhul Naga Long (TNL) has alleged central security forces of bias and failure to protect Naga civilians.
In a statement released on Thursday, the group condemned a reported bomb attack at New Heaven and alleged firing incidents targeting civilian vehicles in the TM Kasom area early in the morning. The committee also cited continued violence in Sinakeithei since late February, attributing these incidents to armed Kuki groups.
The TNL Working Committee claimed that repeated appeals for enhanced security presence in vulnerable villages have gone unaddressed. At the same time, it questioned the actions of forces such as the Border Security Force and units of the Indian Army, alleging selective deployment and failure to intervene effectively during attacks.
One specific incident highlighted was the escort of a student leader into Mullam village under armed protection, contrasted with what the group described as neglect of broader civilian security concerns in nearby areas.
Concerns were also raised over a recent combing operation reportedly conducted in Lungter on April 28 by local police and central forces. According to the statement, violence occurred in Sinakeithei shortly after the operation, leading to suspicions about its effectiveness and intent.
Further criticism was directed at a joint operation ordered on April 29 by the Superintendent of Police in Ukhrul. The TNL alleged deviations from the original plan, claiming that personnel from the Assam Rifles—who were not part of the initial directive—led operations in areas including Shongphel, Mullam, and Ringui.
The statement also raised serious concerns about alleged links between security forces and Kuki militant groups, claiming that certain villages are being used as transit points by both.
The TNL emphasized the widening trust deficit between Naga civilians and central forces operating under the Ministry of Home Affairs. It reiterated demands for the replacement of central forces with state police units, arguing that local forces may be more accountable to the civilian population.
The organization also warned that continued dissatisfaction could lead to democratic forms of protest if their grievances remain unaddressed.
